MTF Makeup For Beginners: Top 10 Tips for Trans Women and Crossdressers

Makeup is a powerful tool for transforming your appearance as a transgender woman or crossdresser.

However, if you’re just getting started, it can seem overwhelming with so many products and techniques to explore.

That’s why in this blog post, I share the top 10 tips to keep in mind when beginning your makeup journey.

These tips will help you master MTF makeup for beginners while bringing out your feminine beauty. Let’s get started!

1. Prep Your Skin Before Applying Makeup

To achieve that perfect makeup look, you need to prepare your skin properly. Start by cleansing your skin to remove any dirt or oil that might be clogging your pores.

Next, shave your face to create a smooth, flawless canvas for your makeup. Use a fresh razor and sensitive skin shave cream to get a close shave without irritating your skin.

Lastly, don’t forget to moisturize! A good moisturizer is key to creating a smooth and hydrated base under your foundation.

2. Use A Primer

Using a primer under your makeup is essential for achieving a flawless, feminine look.

This product, which is typically clear, creates a smooth base by filling in fine lines and pores, allowing your foundation to glide on evenly.

Not only does a primer help your makeup stay put longer, but it also controls oiliness and minimizes shine.

3. Find the Right Foundation Shade/Type For Your Skin

To find the right foundation shade and type for your skin, follow these simple steps.

First, when choosing the right color, determine your undertone (warm, cool, or neutral):

• Warm undertones have hints of yellow or peach.
• Cool undertones have pink or blue undertones.
• Neutral undertones have a balance of both.

Look for foundation shades that match your undertone. Test swatches on your jawline in natural lighting to find the closest match to your skin tone.

When selecting the right foundation type, consider your skin type and desired finish:

• For oily skin, a matte or oil-free liquid foundation is best.
• For dry skin, a hydrating liquid or cream foundation works well.
• For combination skin, try a lightweight liquid or powder foundation.

Consider the coverage level you prefer (sheer, medium, or full) and choose a foundation type that provides that level of coverage.

4. Use Color Corrector For Beard Shadow

Using a color corrector is a great way to eliminate a beard shadow and enhance the appearance of your skin.

Applying a color corrector helps neutralize the dark tones of the beard shadow, allowing for a more natural look when applying foundation.

Beard shadows often have bluish or greenish hues, but you can counteract them with color correctors in opposite shades like orange, peach, or red.

The choice of the best color corrector depends on your skin tone. Here are some recommendations:

• Peach shades work well for light skin tones.
• Orange shades suit medium/tan skin tones.
• Reddish hues are a good choice for dark/ebony skin tones.

5. Invest In A Makeup Brush Kit

I suggest getting a good set of makeup brushes, even if you’re new to applying makeup. They’re much better than the applicators that usually come with eyeshadow or makeup kits.

These brushes are designed for precise application, making it easier to achieve your desired look.

With different brushes for foundation, eyeshadow, contouring, etc., you’ll always have the perfect tool for the task at hand.

6. Apply Makeup In The Right Light

Apply your makeup in natural light if at all possible. This allows you to see how your makeup will look when you leave the house. If you can, place your makeup station close to a window.

If natural light isn’t available, look for a makeup mirror with neutral white light that imitates daylight.

It’s important to avoid harsh overhead lighting, fluorescent lighting, or warm yellow lighting, as these can create shadows and distort the colors, making it difficult to properly apply your makeup.

7. Master The Basics First

When you’re getting started, focus on the basics first. This includes basic MTF makeup techniques like foundation, eyeshadow, beard corrector, eyeliner, lipstick, and mascara.

Don’t try complicated or advanced makeup techniques like false eyelashes or contouring until you have a solid foundation. Your makeup won’t look as good as it could, and you’ll just get frustrated.

8. Apply Eyeliner In Short Strokes

Applying eyeliner is one of the trickiest parts of makeup application, so even the simplest trick or tip can really help. 

I recommend applying eyeliner using short strokes, rather than attempting to complete the stroke all at once. Even though you might anticipate a splotchy finish, using shorter strokes will help you achieve an even line.

9. Apply Lip Liner Before Lipstick

Lip liner should always be applied before lipstick to define and give shape to your lips. It should be applied along the outer edge of your lips. 

It also helps stop lipstick from smudging or bleeding. Additionally, applying liner first is a good habit because then all you have to work on is filling in the space in between the lines.

10. Practice Practice Practice

Finally, you should perfect the art of MTF makeup for beginners by practicing. It will take you time to achieve that perfect look, but trust me, with patience, you will attain it!

In conclusion

Perfecting your makeup skills takes time. And honestly, there’s no end to learning new tips and tricks!

The good news is that by mastering the basics, you’ll be able to effortlessly create a stunning feminine appearance in no time.

As always, I’d love to hear from you. Let me know if you have any questions or additional tips to add. And then, why not share a selfie or a photo showcasing your favorite makeup look in the comments below!

Love,
Lucille

P.S. If you liked this article, you will love my FREE Male to Female Makeup Mini Course.

Learn more and sign up here!